How long have you been studying Martial Arts?
I started Martial Arts at the age of 5, and received my first Black Belt
at age 9.
You hold five Black
Belts. Explain your evolution to the current Martial Arts you train and
teach?
My first three Black Belts were in Tae Kwon Do, Shotokan, and Kempo. I
fought in so many tournaments growing up and was undefeated in sparring
competitions for three years in Germany. But one day on the playground,
my best friend and training partner who I consistently beat in the dojo,
literally kicked my butt. I suddenly learned the difficult concept that
what I had worked so hard in was really a sport, and didn't translate to
being able to take care of myself outside the school. My search for more
effective Martial Arts eventually led me to Kickboxing and Boxing. Just
before my professional Kickboxing debut, I was introduced to Thai
Boxing. I knew instantly that I was where I wanted to be. Along with
Thai Boxing, I started training in Shoot Wrestling, Filipino Martial
Arts, Jeet Kune Do, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Why do you think Martial Arts are so important for young men and women in this country?
When I was 16, I stopped training Martial Arts because I relocated to Prince George, VA. Throughout most of High School, I had a hard time staying out of trouble. I joined the US Marine Corps as a means to gain control of my life again, and I came back to the Martial Arts. I think Martial Arts gives you confidence in yourself and helps you define your character and your goals. I had lost sight of all of that for a few years in High School. My 10 years in the Marine Corps, as well as my re-dedication to Martial Arts training, helped me figure out who I was and who I wanted to become.
I've often heard stories of your career as a fighter. Why have you decided to focus your efforts more on teaching than fighting?
It's true; competition was the driving force behind my training for a long time. But one day, while training with weapons, I received a blow to my eye that put me out of full contact competition for good. I've had several major eye surgeries and even though I haven't lost all sight in that eye, I can't sustain direct blows to my eye. Since the accident, I'm still able to compete in BJJ and Grappling competitions (because of the low impact), but my main focus is now on becoming a better instructor. I continue to evolve and never want to stop training, always trying to increase my knowledge and become the best instructor to my students.
